Why The Church?

The 5th century church father Augustine referred to Baptism and the Lord’s Supper as “visible words.”  

We know that when children are learning, they often need pictures or tangible objects to help them understand a lesson. This is what God provides for us in Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. He comes down to us, His beloved children, with visible and tangible signs. He does this so that we truly grasp, remember, and have confirmation of His covenant promises. This assures us, and strengthens us, in our relationship with God.

As a church we express our thoughts on Baptism and the Lord’s Supper in this way. “Baptism and communion are commands given to the Church as symbols and remembrances of the death of Christ. These ordinances are for believers in that they are external pictures of inward realities. In Baptism, believers are buried with Christ into death and raised to walk in newness of life. Through the Lord's Supper, believers proclaim the Lord's death until he comes.”

Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are Jesus’ gifts to His bride, the church. May we be encouraged by all that the Lord has for us as we consider both of these ordinances.